This Little Known Hiking Path in Scotts Bluff, Nebraska, Is Our Favorite First Hike of the Year

Hikers of Nebraska, it’s time to rejoice. I’ve found a trail so wonderfully suited for the season that it earns an A+ for winter hiking. Yes, you read that right: winter hiking in Nebraska!

A winter hike is one of my favorite things to do here. The trails are noticeably quieter, with even fewer folks than usual (and there usually aren’t many), and that calm lends itself perfectly to those new-year reflections. If you enjoy a good, thoughtful walk to start the year, this trail fits the bill. And if you haven’t settled on any resolutions yet, this is the place to find them.

Coming in at just over three miles round-trip, the Saddle Rock Trail at Scotts Bluff National Monument offers some of the most breathtaking views in the state. And when I say breathtaking, I mean it—most folks who aren’t from here have no idea this trail even exists, let alone that it looks like this. The landscape is nothing like what you’d expect to find in the Cornhusker State; it feels almost otherworldly, and in winter, when there’s hardly anyone around, it’s pure perfection.

If I asked you to name a beautiful canyon in the U.S., you’d probably think of the Grand Canyon, right? After this hike, though, I’m convinced Scotts Bluff could give it a run for its money. Both are stunning in their own unique ways and absolutely worth a visit—but I promise you’ve never seen a landscape in Nebraska quite like this (unless you’ve been here, anyway).

You’ll start at the trailhead, just east of the Visitor Center, and from there you’ll wind through some of Nebraska’s most jaw-dropping scenery on your way to the very top of Scotts Bluff. There are plenty of beautiful views in this state, but the ones along this trail might just be my all-time favorite. They’re positively otherworldly.

As you make the ascent, you’ll come across several fascinating features beyond the views. Among the trail’s highlights is a 1930s-era foot tunnel that you can walk straight through. You’ll reach it in the second third of the hike, which can easily be split into thirds if you don’t want to do the whole loop (there’s also a seasonal summit shuttle for those who prefer a one-way trek, but it’s best to call the monument ahead of time to confirm availability, especially in winter).

Geology enthusiasts will love the final third of the hike, where millions-year-old rock layers tell remarkable stories from ages long past. The trail is well-kept and easy to follow, but be ready for a moderately challenging climb—the steady 435-foot incline leads all the way to the Bluff’s summit, where panoramic views make every step worth it.

For more information about this stunning, little-known trail in Nebraska, check out the official Saddle Rock Trail page on AllTrails, as well as the Scotts Bluff National Monument website. And if you’re a hiking lover (big same) looking to level up your outings, I think you’ll enjoy AllTrails Plus as much as I do. Hiking was already great—now it’s even better!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own hike in Nebraska using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.